10-16-26 Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly

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School board rep says she gets threats PAGE 3A Friday, Oct. 16, 2026 • Vol. 26 • No. 41

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Advocacy group pitches rail by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

MATTHEWS – All Aboard Charlotte has approached leaders in Matthews and Monroe about a proposal to extend passenger rail service beyond anything currently funded. At one point, a one-cent sales tax in Mecklenburg County was viewed as a viable funding solution to extend rail toward Union County, but the state legislature placed a cap on how

much of that revenue could be used for light rail. This forced regional leaders to prioritize projects, and the proposed LYNX Silver Line segment from Charlotte to Matthews did not make the cut. Evan Schultheis, of All Aboard Charlotte, informed Matthews leaders of another alternative. The group recommends establishing commuter rail from Charlotte Gateway Station to Monroe using the CSX railway right of way. “We believe that the CSX

line between Charlotte and Monroe is underutilized and that CSX would be amenable to a trackage rights agreement for passenger service with the right incentives,” Schultheis told town commissioners Oct. 12 during public comments. His organization has created a 120-page proposal on the idea. “Our proposal suggests having nine stops and double-tracking the line to run hourly commuter train service similar to the future Red Line,” Schultheis said. “We

further propose half-hourly service during rush hours.” The project could be built in two phases. All Aboard Charlotte estimates a first phase, from Charlotte Gateway Station to Matthews, would cost $900 million in 2027 dollars. An extension to Monroe would add $300 million in 2027 dollars. “This would also lay the groundwork for future service to Wilmington, a service that was once hosted by the Seaboard Railway and has been mentioned

as a future passenger line by NCDOT,” Schultheis said. Schultheis requested time during an upcoming meeting to formally present the proposal. He encouraged town leaders to discuss it with the Metropolitan Public Transportation Authority and CSX. All Aboard Charlotte is a chapter of the Carolinas Association for Passenger Trains. Learn more about the organization at allaboardcarolinas.org/ charlotte-chapter.

CMS appoints new principal at Rocky River

WHAT'S INSIDE:

by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

Early Education Photo courtesy of Hickory Tavern

Matthews KinderCare teacher wins award, 3A

Connections Firm aids E2D's digital divide efforts, 4A

Burger Time New items added to restaurant menus, 2B

Gathering spot Hickory Tavern adds weekly specials, themed nights, page 1B

Tofano seeks to preserve Matthews Veterans Memorial Park by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

MATTHEWS – A former town commissioner wants to ensure Matthews Veterans Memorial Park isn’t going anywhere. Before serving as a commissioner from 2021 to 2025, Mark Tofano was commander of the Hooks-Orr American Legion Post 235. He led a project to restore and enhance the veterans memorial at Stumptown Park. He successfully advocated for

the memorial to be designated as its own park, which opened on Memorial Day 2021. Tofano returned to town hall Oct. 12 to address his former colleagues during the public comment period. “When I left as commissioner, it was my understanding that it was going to be moved to the new facility behind or near to the new [Matthews Elementary] school and the [Discovery Place] kids museum,” Tofano said. “In addition, that there would be a possibility that the land on which Stumptown

Park currently exists may be turned into some type of infill development. But what I’m hearing from some public comments from members of the board is that maybe that might not be the case, which is great news to the many veterans and to the hundreds of people that have dedicated their emotions and their hearts to that memorial.” Tofano urged commissioners to adopt a policy before Veterans Day that would prevent the park and its structures from being changed. He also wants

assurances that Stumptown Park won’t be surrounded by infill development. The town’s February 2025 parks and recreation master plan designates Stumptown Park as a mini park that has exceeded expectations. “The town is outgrowing Stumptown Park and needs more room for events,” according to the plan. “Opportunities should be examined to move Stumptown to a new location.” Tofano described Stumptown Park as the heartbeat of town.

CHARLOTTE – Veteran principal David Legrand will leave Rocky River High School to lead Ardrey Kell High School. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools has appointed an assistant principal to run Rocky River. Melissa Balknight, acting superintendent for CMS, recognized Legrand and other appointees during the Oct. 13 school board meeting. Balknight said Legrand will start his new post on Nov. 1. “He has several years of leadership experience across the district,” she said. Legrand, whose career in education has spanned 25 years, has served as principal of Rocky River since 2023. He previously led Independence High School and Irwin Academic Center. He also has experience as an assistant principal at Ranson and Carmel middle schools and as an associate superintendent for CMS. Legrand has a master’s degree in school administration from UNC-Chapel Hill and a bachelor’s degree in economics from UNC Charlotte. Peter Knickerbocker will replace Legrand as principal of Rocky River. Knickerbocker has worked in education for 14 years, most recently as assistant principal at Phillip O. Berry Academy of Technology. His prior roles include assistant principal and dean of students at Garinger High School and teacher and athletic director at Morehead STEM Academy. He has also taught at Union County Public Schools. Knickerbocker has a master’s degree in school administration from Winthrop University and a bachelor’s degree in physical education from Purdue University. “We’re excited about his experience at the high school level,” Balknight said. “We believe this will be a good transition for Rocky River High School.” Early college gets new principal CMS has appointed Cassie Eley as principal of Harper Middle College High School. Balknight said Eley has already transitioned into her new role. Eley most recently served as executive director for the CMS Office of Academic Performance. She has also worked as an adjunct professor at Wingate University and as a teacher and principal at Union County Public Schools. UCPS recognized Eley as 2022-23 Principal of the Year for her work at Piedmont Middle School.

Page 2A • The Weekly • Oct. 16, 2026

Rev. Tony: I insisted on picking EDUCATION BRIEFS up my wife at the airport Area high schools win Wells Fargo Conference Cups for athletics

by Tony Marciano Columnist

Rev. Tony Marciano is available to speak to your group. DM him on Facebook.

Have news to share? Send us an email at justin@cmgweekly.com

Indian Trail scholar earns award INDIAN TRAIL – Josiah Reinken of Indian Trail is among 26 recipients nationwide of the 2026 Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship. The scholarship, awarded by the Institute for Educational Advancement, recognizes academically gifted seventh-grade students and covers four years of high school tuition at a school suited to each recipient’s educational needs. Recipients also receive personalized counseling and educational advocacy throughout their high school years. The scholarship program, now in its 24th year, selects students through a competitive application process that includes essays, academic transcripts, standardized test scores, recommendations and work samples. Applications for the next group of scholars, the Class of 2032, will open in late fall. On the web: educationaladvancement.org

NC College Connect expands admission eligibility MONROE – North Carolina’s NC College Connect initiative has expanded to offer direct community college admission to all public high school seniors who are on track to graduate, regardless of their grade-point averages. The statewide program allows eligible students in Anson and Union counties to receive admission offers from South Piedmont Community College without submitting essays, standardized test scores or letters of recommendation. Applications are free. Students can explore programs in nursing, medical sonography, criminal justice, forensics and skilled trades. South Piedmont will also host a free FAFSA Day from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 17 at its

Gardner-Webb University announces free tuition program BOILING SPRINGS – Gardner-Webb University will offer free tuition and mandatory fees to eligible students from households earning $100,000 or less annually beginning in fall 2027. The Open Door Guarantee is available to qualifying first-time freshmen and transfer students pursuing their first bachelor’s degree. Students must enroll full time, live on campus and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. “We want more students to have access to a high-quality Christian university where they can discover their calling, prepare for their future, and grow in their faith,” President Nate Evans said. “This is about opening doors, expanding opportunity and ensuring that finances do not stand in the way.” On the web: gardner-webb.edu/opendoor

Quick Hits • Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools will host a free conference to offer strategies and resources for families of gifted and advanced learners from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 24 at Ballantyne Ridge High School. Register for Growing Gifted at bit.ly/GrowingGifted26. • Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools will host the third annual Endless Possibilities Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 14 at the Charlotte Convention Center. Learn more about school choice programming at cmsk12.org/ academics/school-choice. • Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools is using the hashtag #CMSProud on social media when sharing highlights of students, staff, programs and schools. • The N.C. High School Athletic Association lauded Myers Park, Porter Ridge and Union Academy for being ejection-free in 2025-26. • Union County Public Schools has a program that pairs volunteers with students in first or second grade for weekly reading sessions. The Read With U program is available at 12 elementary schools: Benton Heights, East, Indian Trail, Marshville, Porter Ridge, Rock Rest, Rocky River, Sardis, Union, Walter Bickett, Wingate and Shiloh Valley Primary. • Upcoming dates for Union County Public Schools: UCEC optional teacher workdays (Oct. 12-13), required teacher workday for traditional schools (Oct. 19) and optional teacher workday for Wolfe School (Oct. 19).

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O

ver the course of my career, I learned that responsibility is my top strength. But your strength can also be your weakness. When I arrived at my first appointment, it owed more than half the annual budget. There was no cash in the bank. I was married two weeks. Instead of marital bliss in the first few months of marriage, my wife and I agreed we would go without salary while we worked to turn things around. We went five months without getting paid. Neighbors dropped off food on my front porch. Relaxing was unheard of. Things had to turn around. While my second appointment didn’t have the financial woes, it did have programmatic shortfall. We had a gym and one half deflated basketball. No activity, no youth, nothing. In addition, the building was old and needed renovations. A team of volunteers worked hard to transform the center. Again, the needs of the appointment took top priority. My third appointment was a church plant. There was no location, no office, no parsonage, no vehicle, (can I say – nothing). We started it out of my parents’ 55 plus community retirement home. A funeral home director allowed me to have worship services where people gathered to mourn their loved one. I moved the deceased to another room, conducted church and moved the body back for the 2 p.m. viewing. At Christmas, I took over the showroom of a Chrysler dealership and distributed 300 food and toy boxes to the community. Once again, my foot stayed on the gas and I poured hours into it. Fast forward and I arrive at Charlotte Rescue Mission on July 15, 1996. I found myself building systems so we could impact the men and women who came to us seeking help and hope from

an addiction to drugs and alcohol. I had a “Moment of Inspiration” on a local morning TV show. A high gloss magazine published my articles. Every other week I wrote a faith and values column. At Thanksgiving, I wore a turkey outfit to bring attention to the need for Thanksgiving meals so families would enjoy the holiday in their homes. What started as fifty food boxes ended with over 6,800 complete Thanksgiving meals, impacting over 27,000 individuals. Every Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter I was at the Mission for our holiday meals. While I loved it and felt I was faithfully serving God, my wife took second place to these responsibilities. Then I retired. It took almost two years to reset and look at things from a new perspective. One was my wife. This past July, she was returning from visiting a friend in Maine. I was to pick her up at 2:30 p.m. but her flight was delayed until 6 p.m. Then 8:30 p.m. Moved to 10 p.m. 1 a.m. (yes in the morning) was the next arrival time. Then it was cancelled. Her flight was moved to arrive the next morning at 9:30 a.m. At the same time I had a commitment to the USCG Auxiliary to be part of their boating safety class. I set up the coffee, greeted the guests and left to pick up my wife at the airport. As she got in the car, I said to her, “I am changing the narrative of our marriage. You are more important to me than anything else.” I needed to show her in a tangible way that the first 40- plus years of our marriage is not how I want to spend our golden years together. Sometimes you have to make a dramatic statement that you are not who you used to be. I’ll be back in two weeks. Until then, live well my friend.

CHAPEL HILL – The North Carolina High School Athletic Association has recognized several Charlotte-area schools for their athletic performances with Wells Fargo Conference Cup awards. The awards recognize schools earning the most points in their respective conferences during the school year. Points are based on participation and regular-season conference standings. Region 6 winners include Myers Park in the Greater Charlotte 7A/8A Conference, Marvin Ridge in the Southern Carolina 6A/7A Conference, Providence in the Southwestern 7A/8A Conference and Union Academy in the Yadkin Valley 2A/3A Conference. Butler and Mallard Creek shared the award in the Meck Power Six 7A/8A Conference. Each winning school receives a silver cup for permanent display. The Conference Cup program complements the statewide Wells Fargo State Cup awards.

Old Charlotte Highway Campus in Monroe. Financial aid staff will help students and families complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. The event is open to anyone seeking financial aid assistance, regardless of where they plan to attend college. Students can access their personalized admission information at CFNC.org/NCCollege-Connect. On the web: spcc.edu

The Weekly • Oct. 16, 2026 • Page 3A

Matthews KinderCare teacher earns national award MATTHEWS – Miriam Cortez, a preschool teacher at Matthews KinderCare, has received KinderCare Learning Companies’ 2026 Teacher of the Year Award. Cortez was among 25 educators selected for the honor from more than 40,000 teachers nationwide. Cortez was recognized for creating engaging classroom experiences based on students’ interests and needs. She incorporates English and Spanish into lessons, encourages collaboration and works to ensure children from different language backgrounds feel included. “[Cortez’s] classroom is always bursting with excitement and creativity, and the children have so much fun while they’re learning,” said Tiffany Guidera, Cortez’s center director, who nominated her for the award. “What stands out most is the way she connects with every child. She shows them love and respect, helps them learn to work together and makes sure every child feels like they belong.”

Miriam Cortez will receive a cash award, training opportunities and membership into an early education group. Photo courtesy of KinderCare Learning Centers

Board report: Stone says ‘Advocacy is key’ Cynthia Stone thanked Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools staff, shared district highlights and encouraged voters to consider teacher pay in the November elections during her Oct. 13 school board report. Stone made the following remarks:

I’d like to start with thank you, thank you, thank you and appreciation to the teachers and the staff. As usual, they’re keeping the train on the track. That’s what teachers and staff do. They keep our kids working and learning every single day. And I want them to know how grateful we all are for what they are doing, and kind of apologize for making it harder for them right now. I’d also like to thank our board staff. They’ve done an outstanding job trying to keep us, the board, in line. Appreciate it very much. Appreciate it. Through their tireless efforts, they keep us going, keep us moving.

I also want to acknowledge that it’s been a busy few weeks for the district, highlighted by wonderful opportunities. We enjoyed the chimney swifts at Collinswood the other night. We celebrated Principal Folk as the Principal of the Year for CMS. We celebrated a beautiful playground dedication at Devonshire last week. There’s lots of good things that we can celebrate in this district, and I’d like to keep us doing that. I’d also like to thank the neighborhood associations and PTOs who have asked me to come speak to them. It is a pleasure, sometimes not exactly comfortable, but it’s a pleasure to be with you, to hear from you, to understand what you’re looking to understand from CMS. And advocacy is key, and so I hope that you will continue to do so. Now I find myself in a real challenging position of being on a board that’s navigating a lot of difficult circumstances right now.

And I do want to thank the media, too, for their work in keeping the public informed. A free press is critical for seeking accountability for all actions, and we have to give them that opportunity. … Because of this investigation and all of the investigations going on, I’m grateful that now we can rely on those investigators to tell us what we all are so curious to find out and understand. In the meantime, though, if you want to advocate for teachers and schools, well, November’s coming. CMS, Mecklenburg County cannot give teachers the raise they deserve. The legislature is where that happens. So please get out and vote. Cynthia Stone represents District 5 on the CharlotteMecklenburg Board of Education. The district includes several schools in southern Mecklenburg County, including Butler, Levine Middle College, Myers Park and Providence high schools.

Sneed says she has received threats Stephanie Sneed described threats and personal attacks she has experienced since the CharlotteMecklenburg Board of Education voted to fire Superintendent Crystal Hill and the district became the subject to an investigation involving the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the FBI. Sneed made the following remarks during her Oct. 13 board report: Before tonight’s comments, I was thinking that my remarks would begin with about all the work I’ve done, seen and unseen, for this district and community. Then I realized if you have asked what work has been done or who were served, and in this season, people don’t seem to care. As a woman of faith, I certainly understand that praise can happen at the beginning of the week and condemnation can happen by Friday. I’ve been subject to being called the B-word, an F-ing B-word, the N-word, “wish you were dead,” by both men and women, all wrapped up into threats against my safety with no regard to me being a CMS parent, wife and a human being. I have spent 13 years in this community not only speaking up for them, but putting my words to actions. Even if I had not, no one, including me, should have to earn dignity. Harshness does not bring us closer to the truth or help our children, and more importantly, it serves no one. In fact, it’s despicable. I applaud WFAE’s new series that they’re starting on respectful disagreement without disdain or seeking to destroy. It’s timely. For weeks, assumptions and allegations and mischaracterizations have been repeated as facts. An investigation is not a finding of wrongdoing. An allegation is not a verdict. And of course, context

always matters. I’m wondering how the leaders, elected officials, nonprofits and people serving vulnerable families, especially those serving our students, have responded in similar situations for those that they serve. When a student, a parent is accused, do you listen? Do you extend grace? Do you wait on the facts, or are you whispering or yelling condemnation? People should never become political pawns for personal agendas, personality, selfpreservation or for sport and entertainment. However, I’m fully aware that outrage is selective and processes are not always fair. Nevertheless, my work with the community cannot be erased. I stand by it. My decisions and actions, every single one, have always been centered on students, families and educators. Neither I nor this institution is perfect, but the board has been in the process of examining how our processes can be improved. That work should continue, and it should expand. Self-reflection of all of us must be initiated, and the official external examinations of us should proceed fairly, as it should for anyone. The thing that is most saddening above all is that I have not seen the same sense of urgency and veracity for our students and educators. Please bring that energy to our school buildings, our classrooms because their futures are relying on it. The kids are not all right. I will remain to keep showing up for our children, and I ask the community to do the same. Stephanie Sneed represents District 4 on the CharlotteMecklenburg Board of Education. The district includes several schools in eastern Mecklenburg County, including East Mecklenburg, Independence and Rocky River high schools.

CALENDAR Oct. 16 Bingo Mint Hill Community Center hosts bingo. Register at minthill.recdesk.com. 1-3 p.m.; 11524 Bain School Road, Mint Hill Mint Hill Madness Mint Hill Madness continues at Mint Hill Veterans Park. Attractions include battle reenactments, a children’s market (4-8 p.m.), music by DJ Big C (5-7 p.m.), free vaccines (5-9 p.m.) and music by Davis & The Love (710 p.m.). The event continues through Oct. 17. minthillevents.org/madness 4-10 p.m.; 8500 Fairview Road, Mint Hill Beats ‘n Bites Band of Oz performs beach music during the Beats ‘n Bites series at Stumptown Park. Food trucks and craft beer will be available. Music starts at 6 p.m. Bring a chair or blanket but leave pets at home. matthewsnc.gov/ specialevents 5-9 p.m.; 120 S. Trade St., Matthews Fall Fest The Town of Pineville hosts the second day of Pineville Fall Fest at Jack D. Hughes Park. The festival includes carnival rides, arts and crafts, food trucks and live music. Oct. 16 attractions include Soap Bubble Circus (5 & 7 p.m.), Rick Hubbard’s Great American Kids Show (5:30 & 7:30 p.m.) and Aim High Canines Dog Show (6 & 8 p.m.). Live music will be performed by The Bald Brothers (5:30-6:30 p.m.) and Whole Lotta Presence (7-9 p.m.). pinevillenc.gov 5-9 p.m.; 513 Main St., Pineville

Oct. 16 & 17 Haunted Trail The Museum of the Waxhaws hosts its annual Haunted Trail. Tickets cost $10 for the Halloween-themed walkthrough. https:// museumofthewaxhaws.org/ 7-9:30 p.m.; 8215 Waxhaw Hwy., Waxhaw

Oct. 17 Pickleball (Advanced) Matthews Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resource Department hosts openplay pickleball for intermediate and advanced players at Crews Recreation Center. Admission costs $3. Register at matthewsfun.com. 8:30-10:30 a.m.; 1201 Crews Road, Matthews

“The Ex Hex” by Erin Sterling at Matthews Library. Register in advance at cmlibrary. org/locations/Matthews. 10-11 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews Fall Fest The Town of Pineville hosts the third day of Pineville Fall Fest at Jack D. Hughes Park. The festival includes carnival rides, arts and crafts, food trucks and live music. Oct. 17 attractions include Soap Bubble Circus (12:30, 3:30 & 6 p.m.), pie-eating contest (2 & 5 p.m.), Rick Hubbard’s Great American Kids Show (2:30, 5:30 & 6:30 p.m.), Aim High Canines Dog Show (1, 4 & 7 p.m.) and fireworks (9 p.m.). Live music will be performed by Landslide (4-6 p.m.) and On the Border (7-9 p.m.). pinevillenc.gov 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; 513 Main St, Pineville Pickleball (Beginner) Matthews Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resource Department hosts open-play pickleball for beginning players at Crews Recreation Center. Admission costs $3. Register at matthewsfun.com. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 1201 Crews Road, Matthews Pop-Up Market Ballantyne Village hosts its monthly popup market featuring local vendors selling handmade goods, artisan products and gifts. The event includes live music and an outdoor bar. 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; 14825 Ballantyne Village Way, Charlotte Mint Hill Madness Mint Hill Madness continues at Mint Hill Veterans Park. Attractions include battle reenactments, free vaccines and health screenings (10 a.m.-8 p.m.), a children’s market (11 a.m.-3 p.m.) and music by DJ Big C (noon-3 p.m.), Chasin’ Aldean (3-5:45 p.m.) and Gump Fiction (6:30-9:30 p.m.). The event ends with fireworks at 9:30 p.m. minthillevents.org/madness 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; 8500 Fairview Road, Mint Hill Book Club The Happy Reading Book Club discusses “The Fellowship of Puzzlemakers” by Samuel Burr at Mint Hill Library. Register in advance at cmlibrary.org/locations/Mint-Hill. 2-3 p.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill

Family Storytime Children ages 0-5 engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Matthews Library. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 9:30-10 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews

Chess Club The Family Chess Club learns and plays chess at Mint Hill Library. cmlibrary.org/ locations/Mint-Hill 3-4 p.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill

Family Storytime Families engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Mint Hill Library. Registration starts in person 30 minutes before the event. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Mint-Hill 9:30-10 a.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill

Dungeons & Dragons Mint Hill Community Center hosts Dungeons & Dragons. Register at minthill.recdesk.com. 5-8 p.m.; 11524 Bain School Road, Mint Hill

Paws to Read Children ages 5-11 read to a volunteer therapy dog at Matthews Library. Sign up for a 15-minute session upon arrival. Registration opens 15 minutes before the first session. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 10-11 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews Book Club The Books and Bae book club discusses

Community Theater Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts presents a staged reading of Michael and Susan Parker’s comedy “Sex Please, We’re Sixty!” at Matthews Ballroom. The evening begins with drinks and hors d’oeuvres at 6 p.m., followed by the performance at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $50 and include two drink tickets. matthewsplayhouse.com 6 p.m.; 189 N. Trade St., Matthews

Oct. 17-18 Renaissance Festival The Carolina Renaissance Festival returns for its 33rd season with eight weekends of

entertainment in a 25-acre storybook village. Attractions include interactive theater, circus acts, fairies, dragons, mermaids, falconry, music, dance and jousting. An artisan marketplace features demonstrations. Tickets cost $36 for adults and $22 for ages 5-12. Ages 4 and younger get in free. Carolina. RenFestInfo.com 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; N.C. 73 at Poplar Tent Road, Huntersville

Oct. 18 Badminton (Advanced) Matthews Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resource Department hosts badminton for advanced players at Crews Recreation Center. Admission costs $3. Register at matthewsfun.com. 10 a.m.-noon; 1201 Crews Road, Matthews Badminton (Beginners) Matthews Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resource Department hosts badminton for beginners at Crews Recreation Center. Admission costs $3. Register at matthewsfun. com. Noon-2 p.m.; 1201 Crews Road, Matthews Pickleball Sundays Mint Hill Community Center hosts Pickleball Sundays. Register at minthill.recdesk.com. Noon-6 p.m.; 11524 Bain School Road, Mint Hill Badminton (Family Time) Matthews Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resource Department hosts Badminton: Family Time at Crews Recreation Center. Admission costs $3. Register at matthewsfun. com. 2-4 p.m.; 1201 Crews Road, Matthews

Oct. 19 Baby Storytime Children ages 0-2 build language and socialization skills in Baby Storytime at Mint Hill Library. Register for the event 30 minutes before the program. cmlibrary.org/ locations/Mint-Hill 9:30-10 a.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill Family Storytime Children ages 0-5 engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Matthews Library. Register at the train desk within 15 minutes of the program starting. cmlibrary. org/locations/Matthews 10:15-10:45 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews Storytimes Children ages 0-5 listen to stories and songs in English and Spanish during Stories in 2 Languages at Mint Hill Library. cmlibrary. org/locations/Mint-Hill 11:15-11:45 a.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill Paws to Read Children ages 5-11 read to a volunteer therapy dog at Matthews Library. Sign up for a 15-minute session upon arrival. Registration opens 15 minutes before the first session. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 3:30-4:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews

Oct. 20 Veteran Cafe Veterans gather for camaraderie at Veteran Cafe at Mint Hill Community Center. Register at minthill.recdesk.com. 9 a.m.-noon; 11524 Bain School Road, Mint

Hill Pickleball Matthews Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resource Department hosts open-play pickleball at Crews Recreation Center. Register at matthewsfun.com. 10 a.m.-noon; 1201 Crews Road, Matthews Family Storytime Children ages 0-5 engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Matthews Library. Register at the train desk 15 minutes before the event. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Matthews 10:15-10:45 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews

Mahjong at the Mint Hill Community Center. Register in advance at minthill.recdesk.com. 1-4 p.m.; 11524 Bain School Road, Mint Hill Paws to Read Children ages 5-11 read to a volunteer therapy dog at Matthews Library. Sign up for a 15-minute session upon arrival. Registration opens 15 minutes before the first session. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 3:30-4:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews Bike Night Kristopher’s Sports Bar & Restaurant holds Bike Night with music and drink specials. 5:30-8:30 p.m.; 250 N. Trade St., Matthews

Family Storytime Families engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Mint Hill Library. Registration starts 30 minutes before the event. cmlibrary.org/locations/Mint-Hill 10:15-10:45 or 11-11:30 a.m.; 6840 MatthewsMint Hill Road, Mint Hill

Oct. 22

Conversation Club Preteens and teens practice speaking Spanish during Intermediate Spanish Conversation Club at Matthews Library. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews Noon-1 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews

Park Storytime Children listen to stories and songs during Storytime in the Park at Squirrel Lake Park. cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews 10:15-10:45 a.m.; 1631 Pleasant Plains Road, Matthews

Marvelous Math Children ages 3-5 engage in math-themed stories and activities during Preschool Storytime: Marvelous Math at Matthews Library. Register in advance at cmlibrary. org/locations/Matthews. 2-3:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews Crossout Poetry Teens turn worn-out books into crossout poetry at Matthews Library. Register in advance at cmlibrary.org/locations/ Matthews. 4-5 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews Craft & Chat Artists and crafters can socialize while working on projects at the Mint Hill Community Center. Register in advance at minthill.recdesk.com. 6-8 p.m.; 11524 Bain School Road, Mint Hill

Oct. 21 Family Storytime Children ages 0-5 engage with stories and songs through Family Storytime at Matthews Library. Register at the train desk 15 minutes before the event. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Matthews 10:15-10:45 a.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews Preschool Storytime Children ages 3-5 build reading skills through stories and songs during Preschool Storytime at Mint Hill Library. Register at the train desk within 30 minutes before the event. cmlibrary.org/locations/Mint-Hill 11:15-11:45 a.m.; 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill Book Club The Pocket-Size Book Club discusses “If We Were Villains” by M.L. Rio at Matthews Library. Register in advance at cmlibrary. org/locations/Matthews. 1-2 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews Mahjong New and experienced players can play

Park Storytime Mint Hill Library hosts a Family Storytime at Mint Hill Veterans Memorial Park. Children ages 0-5 enjoy stories and songs. cmlibrary. org/locations/Mint-Hill 10-11 a.m.; 8850 Fairview Road, Mint Hill

Knitting Studio Matthews Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resource Department hosts open studio for knitting at Matthews Community Center. The program is for adults. Register at matthewsfun.com. Noon-1:30 p.m.; 100 E. McDowell St., Matthews Chess Club Children ages 5-11 play and practice chess at Matthews Library. cmlibrary.org/locations/ Matthews 4:30-5:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews Mahjong New and experienced players can play Mahjong at the Mint Hill Community Center. Register in advance at minthill.recdesk.com. 5-8 p.m.; 11524 Bain School Road, Mint Hill Mahjong People play American mahjong Open Play at Matthews Library. Register in advance at cmlibrary.org/locations/Matthews. 6-7:30 p.m.; 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews Pints & Pinball Ready Player 1 Amusements hosts free pinball during Pints & Pinball at Carolina Beer Temple. carolinabeertemple.com 6-9 p.m.; 215 N. Ames St., Matthews Ballantyne Live Ballantyne Village presents live music during the Ballantyne Live fall music series. Guests should bring a chair. 6-9 p.m.; 14825 Ballantyne Village Way, Charlotte

Page 4A • The Weekly • Oct. 16, 2026

BUSINESS BRIEFS Spectrum awards grant to E2D CHARLOTTE – Spectrum has awarded a $25,000 Spectrum Digital Education grant to E2D, a nonprofit that provides refurbished computers to North Carolina families lacking access to technology. The grant marks Spectrum’s 10th award to E2D, bringing its total support to $325,000 over the past decade. E2D collects used laptops, refurbishes them in student-led technology labs and distributes them to students and families in need. The partnership has helped provide nearly 2,200 laptops to North Carolina residents, including domestic violence survivors, refugees and disaster victims, according to E2D President Pat Millen. “Technology is a powerful equalizer, but only if people have access to a computer and then know how to use it,” said Rahman Khan, group vice president of community impact at Spectrum. “Through Spectrum Digital Education, we’re helping our nonprofit partners turn connectivity into real opportunities for their communities, from education and employment to everyday connection and independence.”

Charlotte hires international post CHARLOTTE – The City of Charlotte has appointed Federico Rios as its international relations officer to lead the newly established Office of International Relations. The office will support language access, integration services and community outreach while developing a strategy to strengthen Charlotte’s international relationships. “As our international connections deepen, we need a dedicated function to help align the city’s approach, build relationships with our international communities and partners, and ensure Charlotte is positioned to make the most of its growing global standing,” Charlotte City Manager Marcus D. Jones said. Rios brings more than 20 years of experience in local government, nonprofits and philanthropy. He currently serves as interim executive director of the Latin American Coalition and co-chair of the North Carolina Governor’s Advisory Council on Latino Affairs. He previously served as senior vice president at Foundation For The Carolinas and deputy director of Charlotte’s Office of Equity, Mobility and Immigrant Integration.

Union County promotes Parks to assistant county manager MONROE – Union County Manager Brian Matthews has promoted Megan Parks to assistant county manager. Parks has served as director of strategy and innovation since February 2024. In her new role, Parks will provide executive leadership to several county departments while continuing to oversee strategy and innovation. “Megan has demonstrated a strong ability to work across our organization, understand complex challenges and help departments identify strategies that improve how we serve our community,” Matthews said. “We have remained a very lean organization and need additional capacity within the management team to best support county department directors.” The promotion restores a previous management structure consisting of a county manager, one deputy county manager and two assistant county managers. Parks joins Matthews, Deputy County Manager Patrick Niland and Assistant County Manager Clayton Voignier on the leadership team. Parks previously served as director of strategy management and performance improvement for CaroMont Health.

TD Bank volunteers plant 58 trees CHARLOTTE – TD Bank has awarded TreesCharlotte a 2026 TD Tree Days grant to support tree planting and community greening efforts. More than 40 volunteers joined TreesCharlotte on Oct. 2 to plant 58 trees at Aldersgate. “Partnerships like these are critical to the mission of TreesCharlotte as we add much needed canopy to the mixed-income Aldersgate community in East Charlotte,” said Allison Rhodes, executive director of TreesCharlotte. “The additional trees will serve as beautification and privacy for the residents and will bring benefits to make it a healthy, livable, vibrant community for years to come.” TD Tree Days is a volunteer program in partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation and local organizations. Volunteers have planted more than 22,000 trees and shrubs nationwide since 2011. About 3,846 additional trees and shrubs are expected to be planted during the 2026 planting season. “TD Tree Days creates opportunities for people to come together, spend time outdoors, build meaningful connections and make a positive difference in the communities they call home,” said Paige Carlson-Heim, head of social impact at TD Bank.

Charlotte names Bradley its new community relations director CHARLOTTE – The City of Charlotte has appointed Terry Bradley as director of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Community Relations, making him the third person to lead the department in its more than 60-year history. Bradley will oversee programs involving Americans with Disabilities Act, Community Affairs, Fair Housing, Nondiscrimination and Dispute Settlement. He’ll also provide leadership to the Community Relations Committee. “Throughout his service, Terry has worked to strengthen trust between residents and local government; resolve disputes; advance fair housing and nondiscrimination protections; improve access for people with disabilities; and create opportunities for meaningful community participation,” City Manager Marcus D. Jones said. “He has also helped the city navigate difficult and sensitive community issues by bringing people together, encouraging honest dialogue and identifying paths forward.” Bradley has worked for the city since 1994. He most recently served as deputy community relations director and interim community relations director. He serves as president of the North Carolina chapter of the National Association of Human Rights Workers.

Magnolia Laine Bridal maintains a bridal boutique at 1200 Kenilworth Ave. It is open Tuesdays through Saturdays by appointment only. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Laine Bridal JLL Executive Managing Directors Brad Cherry and Matthew Greer oversee marketing and leasing for SilverPark North. JLL Vice President John Kincaid represented Sims-Lohman in the transaction. Photo courtesy of JLL

AI Friendly Summit coming to Charlotte on Nov. 4-5 CHARLOTTE – The AI Friendly Summit will offer two days of artificial intelligence training Nov. 4 and 5 at The Dubois Center at UNC Charlotte Center City, 320 E. Ninth St. The event is designed for professionals, business owners and organizational leaders interested in applying AI tools to their work. Sessions will accommodate beginners and experienced users. The summit will feature four tracks covering career development, small business growth, enterprise applications and hands-on workshops. Topics include productivity, marketing, customer service, automation, cybersecurity, privacy and AI ethics. Attendees are encouraged to bring a phone, tablet or laptop with access to their AI accounts to participate in interactive sessions. Early-bird admission costs $99 through Oct. 31 and includes both days. On the web: AIFriendlySummit.com/tickets

Thomas & Hutton hires designer CHARLOTTE – Thomas & Hutton has hired Jackson Warner as a civil designer in the professional services firm’s Charlotte office. Warner has previous experience in building enclosure consulting and recently passed the Fundamentals of Engineering exam. In his new role, Warner will prepare site development construction drawings, develop engineering designs for water, sewer and storm drainage infrastructure and assist with permit applications for residential, commercial and industrial projects.

Sims-Lohman signs lease at Charlotte industrial park CHARLOTTE – Sims-Lohman has signed a 58,604-square-foot lease at SilverPark North, bringing the three-building industrial park to full occupancy. M. David Properties owns the 305,000-square-foot development. Sims-Lohman distributes cabinetry and fabricates granite and quartz countertops. The company annually distributes more than 50,000 kitchens and produces 20,000 countertops. Charlotte’s industrial market recorded 993,000 square feet of net absorption during the second quarter of 2026, bringing the year-to-date total to 1.34 million square feet, according to JLL. Leasing volume increased 51% from the previous quarter to 3.85 million square feet.

Bridal company offers free gown to breast cancer survivor CHARLOTTE – Magnolia Laine Bridal is accepting nominations through Oct. 31 for a wedding gown giveaway benefiting a bride who is battling or has survived breast cancer. The For Elizabeth, A Bridal Shopping Experience campaign honors Elizabeth Stevens, who died of metastatic breast cancer in 2023. Stevens had dreamed of opening a Magnolia Laine boutique in Detroit, which the company’s founders helped establish after her death. The prize package will include personalized VIP shopping appointments at one of Magnolia Laine’s seven locations, including Charlotte. The company has a history of donating a portion of October gown sales to The Sugar Foundation, which supports families affected by breast cancer. On the web: magnolialainebridal.com/forelizabeth

ABC store closes for renovations CHARLOTTE – The Mecklenburg County Alcoholic Beverage Control Board has temporarily closed ABC Spirits Store 23 at 8130 S. Tryon St. in Whitehall Commons Shopping Center for renovations. The improvements are intended to improve store operations and customer service. “Investing in our stores is an important part of ensuring we continue to provide the level of service our community expects," said Keva Walton, CEO of the Mecklenburg County ABC Board. During the closure, customers can visit nearby ABC Spirits locations at 9500 South Blvd. and 13720 Steelecroft Parkway.

Charlotte Area Chamber events CHARLOTTE – The Charlotte Area Chamber of Commerce hosts Meet the Candidates, Coffee with the Chamber, Founders Committee Mastermind and three ribbon cuttings. • Members hear from candidates running for federal and state offices during Meet the Candidates from noon to 3 p.m. Oct. 16 at Stella Nova Restaurant & Bar, 3920 Sharon Road, Suite 160, Charlotte. Register in advance. • Members mingle during Coffee with the Chamber from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Oct. 20 at BNI, 3430 Toringdon Way, Suite 300, Charlotte. Members get in free. Others pay $5. Register in advance. • Members learn business strategies during the Founders Committee Mastermind from 9 to 11 a.m. Oct. 21 at Alchemy CoWorking, 2459 Wilkinson Blvd., Charlotte. Register in advance. • Members celebrate the grand opening of Mattamy Homes from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 21 at 4049 Butler Grove Lane, Charlotte. The ribbon will be cut at 11:30 a.m. Register in advance. • Members celebrate the grand opening of Bin There Dump That from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 22 at 9559 Charlotte Hwy., Indian Land. The ribbon will be cut at 10:30 a.m. Register in advance. • Members celebrate the grand opening of Nichols Landing by Mungo Homes from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Oct. 22 at 7552 Mashburn Drive, Charlotte. The ribbon will be cut at noon. Register in advance. Visit charlotteareachamber.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.

Matthews Area Chamber events MATTHEWS – The Matthews Area Chamber of Commerce hosts Coffee With the Commissioners. • Jessica Tullar, president and CEO of the Matthews Area Chamber, facilitates Coffee With the Commissioners from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Nov. 6 at First Horizon, 2432 McKee Road, Charlotte. Register in advance. Visit matthewschamber.org to learn more about the chamber and its events.

Mint Hill Chamber events MINT HILL – The Mint Hill Chamber of Commerce hosts Business After Hours. • Members network during Business After Hours from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Oct. 20 at Inspire Royal Park, 4101 Glenloch Circle, Matthews. Register in advance. Visit minthillchamberofcommerce.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.

South Charlotte Chamber events PINEVILLE – The South Charlotte Metro Chamber of Commerce hosts a Coffee and Roundtable Discussion. • Members hear about business topics during the monthly Coffee and Roundtable Discussion from 8 to 9:30 a.m. Nov. 11 at Hilton Garden Inn, 425 Towne Centre Blvd., Pineville. Register in advance. Visit scmchamber.org to learn more about the chamber and its events.

LOUD & LIVE Oct. 16 • Amos’ Southend: Julia Cole • CharBar No. 7 (Mint Hill): Jay Mathey • Evening Muse: Hank Sinatra; The Band Feel • Franklin Court Grille: Dual Drive • Moochies Tavern: Dusk Til Dawn • Neighborhood Theatre: Colby Acuff • Ovens Auditorium: Arcángel • Peddlers Paradise: Violent Gypsies • Spectrum Center: The Smashing Pumpkins • Stooges Pub & Grub: Sweet Leaf • TD Amp Ballantyne: Feeling 22 • The Fillmore: Clutch • The Trail House: Badcash Band • Truliant Amphitheater: Five Finger Death Punch • Visulite Theatre: Progressive Rock Showcase featuring Nospun & Abacab

Oct. 17 • Amos’ Southend: Graham Barham • Evening Muse: Tate Butts (sold out) • Moochies Tavern: Wonderfree • Neighborhood Theatre: Bombargo • Peddlers Paradise: Jam Central • Stooges Pub & Grub: Gruv Soup • TD Amp Ballantyne: Trampled by Turtles • The Fillmore: Waylon Wyatt • The Trail House: The Toe Jam Band • The Underground: Rodrigo y Gabriela

Oct. 18 • Evening Muse: Maris (sold out) • Neighborhood Theatre: Bunii • Spectrum Center: Teddy Swims • The Fillmore: The Story So Far • The Underground: Chad Gray

Oct. 19 • Evening Muse: Open Mic • Neighborhood Theatre: L7

Oct. 20 • Amos’ Southend: Neoni • Neighborhood Theatre: Andrew McMahon (sold out) • Peddlers Paradise: Jesse Lee • Spectrum Center: KATSEYE • The Fillmore: Benjamin Tod & Lost Dog Street Band • Visulite Theatre: Maddie Zahm

Oct. 21 • Amos’ Southend: Texas Is the Reason • CharBar No. 7 (Carmel): Darren Deese • Neighborhood Theatre: Abbie Gamboa • Peddlers Paradise: Mariah Lee • The Fillmore: Arch Enemy & The Black Dahlia Murder • The Trail House: Kick Back Trio • The Underground: Peeling Flesh • Visulite Theatre: Ratboys with Smidley

Oct. 22 • CharBar No. 7 (Mint Hill): Tim Gawart • Evening Muse: Adam Paddock • Ovens Auditorium: The Carpenters Songbook • Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: Steve Lacy • The Underground: Scene Queen • Visulite Theatre: Alana Springsteen

Charlotte • Amos’ Southend: 1423 S. Tryon St. • CharBar No. 7: 4130 Carmel Road • Evening Muse: 3227 N. Davidson St. • Neighborhood Theatre: 511 E. 36th St. • Ovens Auditorium: 2900 E. Independence Blvd. • Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre: 1000 NC Music Factory Blvd. • Spectrum Center: 333 E. Trade St. • The Fillmore: 820 Hamilton St. • The Underground: 820 Hamilton St. • TD Amp Ballantyne: 11115 Upper Ave. • Truliant Amphitheater: 707 Pavilion Blvd. • Visulite Theatre: 1615 Elizabeth Ave.

Indian Trail • The Trail House: 6751 Old Monroe Road

Mint Hill • CharBar No. 7: 7312 Town View Drive • Stooges Pub & Grub: 13230 Albemarle Road

Monroe

Union County Chamber events

Spectrum presented a $25,000 Spectrum Digital Education grant and laptops to Charlotte nonprofit E2D on Oct. 9 at Avid Lab in Charlotte. Photo courtesy of Spectrum

MONROE – The Union County Chamber of Commerce hosts an AM Power Networking. • Members mingle during AM Power Networking from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Oct. 20 at the Town of Indian Trail, 315 Matthews-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail. Members get in free. Others pay $15. Register in advance. Visit unioncountycoc.com to learn more about the chamber and its events.

• Franklin Court Grille: 232 E. Franklin St. • Peddlers Paradise: 103 W. Franklin St.

Stallings • Moochies Tavern: 15060 Idlewild Road

REGIONAL The Weekly • Oct. 16, 2026 • Page 1B

BUILD A WINNING GAME-DAY SPREAD

with Big Flavor and Less Mess

G

FEATURE IMPACT

ame day is about more than the big plays, touchdown-saving tackles and final score. Whether you’re gathering in the stadium parking lot or hosting friends for an at-home watch party, a memorable experience begins long before kickoff. Start your pregame festivities with an MVP-worthy spread that’s simple to serve, easy to eat and keeps fans full through the final whistle. For example, the flavor of Buffalo is a game-day staple, but wings aren’t the only way to enjoy it. For less mess, Buffalo Chicken Caesar and Celery Wraps pair convenience with the cool crunch of Dandy Celery, a year-round superstar ingredient for many of your favorite football-inspired dishes. It’s packed with flavor and low in calories, making it a smart choice for snacking.

The contrasting tastes and textures offer a satisfying bite, whether you slice the wraps into smaller portions for appetizer-style serving or leave them whole for fans with hearty appetites. Nervous nibblers during the game’s most tense moments may prefer a lighter bite, and that’s where a dependable dip can come through in the clutch. This Buffalo Hummus recipe puts a tailgate-spin on the familiar favorite, combining creamy texture with a little heat. Serve it alongside crackers, chips or crisp vegetables like Dandy celery dippers, fresh-cut celery sticks that are pre-washed and ready to eat at your convenience – a true time-saver when the clock is ticking. Design your own winning game plan by finding more tailgating recipes at DudaFresh.com.

Buffalo Hummus Prep time: 5 minutes Servings: 8

1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed 1/4 cup tahini 1/4 cup Buffalo sauce 2 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 lemon, juice only 2 cloves garlic 2-3 tablespoons ice water dairy-free blue cheese, for garnish (optional) chopped chives, for garnish (optional) paprika, for garnish (optional) olive oil, for garnish (optional) Dandy Celery Dippers pita chips In food processor, puree drained chickpeas, tahini, Buffalo sauce, olive oil, lemon juice and garlic until smooth, stopping to scrape down sides as needed. Add water through lid until desired consistency is achieved. Spread hummus onto serving plate or bowl. Garnish, if desired, with dairy-free blue cheese, chopped chives, paprika and drizzle of olive oil. Serve with celery dippers and pita chips.

Buffalo Chicken Caesar and Celery Wraps Servings: 4

2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken 1/4 cup Buffalo sauce 2 cups Dandy romaine hearts, chopped 1 cup Dandy celery, chopped (about 4 ribs) 1/3 cup Caesar dressing 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

4 large flour tortillas (10 inches) In bowl, toss shredded chicken with Buffalo sauce. Set aside. To make salad: In separate bowl, combine romaine, celery, Caesar dressing, Parmesan cheese and black pepper. Mix well. To assemble wraps: Spoon about 1/4 cup Buffalo chicken along center of each tortilla, leaving small border at each end; top with Caesar salad. Fold up bottom of tortilla over filling then fold in sides and roll up tightly. Slice in half diagonally.

Hickory Tavern adds daily specials, weekly events CHARLOTTE – Hickory Tavern has introduced daily food and drink specials as well as updated its weekly entertainment schedule. The modern American tavern and neighborhood gathering spot has 16 locations across the Carolinas. Each location has an average of more than 40 screens for watching college and pro football games while enjoying wings, smashburgers and weekend bucket specials. “We want Hickory Tavern to be the kind of place guests can count on, whether they’re looking for somewhere to watch the game, meet friends for trivia, hear live music or grab dinner on a Tuesday night,” said Tony Read, brand president of Hickory Tavern. “The best part of a neighborhood tavern is becoming part of people’s routines and traditions, and that’s the kind of experience we want to create every day.” The HT Lineup Hickory Tavern’s new daily specials, known as The HT Lineup, include: • Monday Mayhem: $9 burgers and fries, $4 domestic drafts and $6 Tito’s

• Nacho Average Tuesday: $8 nachos deluxe, $4 Modelo drafts, $5 house margaritas and $6 flavored margaritas • Wing Wednesday: 99-cent wings and a 22-ounce beer for the 16-ounce price • Wine & Dine Thursday: $11 flatbreads, half-price bottles of wine and $4 domestic drafts • All Weekend (Friday to Sunday): $17 domestic beer buckets, $25 High Noon buckets and $6 mimosas Food specials are offered all day. Drink specials are offered all day at North Carolina locations and from 4 to 8 p.m. at South Carolina locations. Offers and availability may vary by restaurant.

Theme Nights • Tuesday (trivia): Hickory and Indian Land at 7 p.m. • Wednesday (trivia): Asheville, Holly Springs and Steelecroft at 7 p.m.; Spartanburg at 8 p.m. • Friday (karaoke): Steelecroft at 8 p.m. • Friday (live music): Asheville, Ballantyne and Harris at 9 p.m. Programming varies by location. Guests can visit hickorytavern.com and select a local tavern to find the latest schedule and event details. HIckory Tavern pairs a festive sports atmosphere with daily food and drink specials and theme nights around music bingo, trivia and live music. Ballantyne, Sun Valley and Wesley Chapel are among the chain's 16 locations. Photos courtesy of NiceDay

Weekly Entertainment Select Hickory Tavern locations feature recurring entertainment throughout the week: Music Bingo • Monday: Sun Valley at 7 p.m. • Tuesday: Ballantyne, Rock Hill and Steelecroft at 7 p.m. • Wednesday: Hickory and Wesley Chapel at 7 p.m. • Thursday: Asheville at 6 p.m. and Gastonia at 7 p.m.

DINING SCORES Health departments inspected these spots Oct. 1 to 7:

Charlotte • 1900 Mexican Grill, 5110 Park Road – 98 • Auntie Anne’s, Jamba, Cinnabon, 4400 Sharon Road – 95.5 • Baoding, 4722 Sharon Road – 93 • Blanchard’s Deli, 5721 Carmel Road – 99 • Boardwalk Billy’s, 1636 Sardis Road N. – 96.5 • Bojangles, 1604 Galleria Blvd. – 97.5 • Cantina Louie, 7520 Pineville-Matthews Road – 99.5 • Chex Grill & Wings, 1609 Sardis Road N. – 99.5 • Chick-O-Rico, 7510 Pineville-Matthews Road – 98 • Inizio Pizza Napoletana, 282 S. Sharon Amity Road – 99 • Lucky Lou’s Tavern, 5124 Park Road – 98 • Mi Tierra Colombian Restaurant, 10405 Park Road – 98 • Mugs, 5126 Park Road – 97.5 • Park 51 Cafe, 10703 Park Road – 94 • Rada, 2820 Selwyn Ave. – 98.5 • Smoothie King, 8710 Krefeld Drive – 99.5 • Tacos y Mas Los Primos, 1343 Sharon Road W. – 94 • Thai House Kitchen, 3120 Latrobe Drive – 98.5 • Tropical Smoothie Cafe, 9020 Albemarle Road – 98.5 • Velvet Taco, 1601 E. Woodlawn Road – 94.5

Charlotte (28277) • Bahn Thai, 12206 Copper Way – 97.5

• Brazilian Eats & Treats, 16049 Johnston Road – 98.5 • Buona Vita, 3419 Toringdon Way – 96.5 • Chick-fil-A, 7910 Rea Road – 99 • Green Brothers, 6432 Rea Road – 96 • Harriet’s Hamburgers, 15109 Bowl St. – 99 • Lorenzo’s Pizzeria, 16721 Orchard Stone Run – 97 • Midwood Smokehouse, 12410 Johnston Road – 94 • Napa Bistro & Wine Bar, 7708 Rea Road – 92 • Palm Berries, 7808 Rea Road – 97.5 • Poke Express, 16041 Johnston Road – 98 • Sheng Ramen, 15201 John J. Delaney Drive – 96.5 • Shuckin’ Shack, 5349 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy. – 98 • Tsuki Japanese Steak House , 3429 Toringdon Way – 95 • Vicious Biscuit, 8200 Providence Road – 98

Indian Trail & Lake Park • Bojangles, 6550 Old Monroe Road – 97.5 • Chick-fil-A, 13801 E. Independence Blvd. – 98 • El Atardecer Restaurant, 5719 W. U.S. 74 – 98.5 • KFC, 13900 E. Independence Blvd. – 97.5 • Panera Bread, 13880 E. Independence Blvd. – 92 • Puerto Vallarta Mexican, 6120 Creft Circle – 98.5

Matthews & Mint Hill • Applebee’s, 9616 E. Independence Blvd. – 98.5 • Arby’s, 12936 Albemarle Road – 98

• Azteca Restaurant, 9709 E. Independence Blvd. – 97 • Beach and Borough, 2800 Campus Ridge Road – 99 • Burger King, 7002 Matthews-Mint Hill Road – 95.5 • IHOP, 9253 E. Independence Blvd. – 94.5 • Lucky Strike, 11210 Brigman Road – 94.5 • Moo & Brew, 250 N. Trade St. – 95.5 • Pizza Hut, 9229 Lawyers Road – 94 • Rancho Jalisco, 9229 Lawyers Road – 97 • Smoothie King, 3118 Fincher Farm Road – 98.5

• The Derby Restaurant & Bar, 1012 Skyway Drive – 95 • The Smoke Pit, 1507 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 97 • The Spot, 1513 Concord Ave. – 92 • Tortilleria Los Paisanos, 1404 Skyway Drive – 92 • Tradicion de Mi Rancho, 1702 Walkup Ave. – 95.5

Monroe

Stallings

• A Cause for Tea, 418 E. Franklin St. – 100 • American Deli, 1013 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 96.5 • Chick-fil-A, 2559 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 98 • Claws, 812 N. Charlotte Ave. – 87 • Domino’s Pizza, 814 N. Charlotte Ave. – 93.5 • Dunkin, 2570 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 98.5 • Guthrie’s Chicken, 2200 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 93.5 • Knife and Fork, 1201 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 98 • Mac’s Fish and Chicken, 2399 W. Roosevelt Blvd. – 98.5 • Ron’s Grill, 3621 Old Charlotte Hwy. – 99 • Roughedge Trading Co., 5310 Lancaster Hwy. – 100 • Slim Chickens, 5118 Old Charlotte Hwy. – 92 • Subway, 1811 Dickerson Blvd. – 90.5 • Taqueria y Marisqueria Los Pepe’s, 1702 Walkup Ave. – 98.5

Pineville • Sarku Japan, 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 93.5 • Yume/Sizzling, 10500 Centrum Pkwy. – 97

• Bisonte Pizza, 1381 Chestnut Lane – 93 • Miguelo’s Empanadas, 4522 Potter Road – 98.5 • New Asia Market, 4400 Potter Road – 94 • New Asia Market (meat), 4400 Potter Road – 100 • NY Pizza Express, 4520 Potter Road – 98 • Pupuseria La Pasadita, 4432 Potter Road – 99

Waxhaw • G.R.I.T.S. Home Cookin’, 7909 Lancaster Hwy. – 98.5 • Taco Bell, 2517 Cuthbertson Road – 98 • Taqueria La Costena II, 1998 S. Providence Road – 94.5

Weddington & Wesley Chapel • Rock Store Express, 13801 Providence Road – 87.5 • Taco Bell, 112 Waxhaw-Indian Trail Road S. – 96

Page 2B • The Weekly • Oct. 16, 2026

Hawkers Asian Street Food adds Nasi Lemak, dishes ORLANDO – At the heart of Hawkers Asian Street Food’s new limited-time menu is Nasi Lemak, a Malaysian staple and the national dish of co-founder and chef Allen Lo’s home country. Coconut rice comes together with spicy sambal, crispy anchovies, roasted peanuts, a soft-boiled egg and cucumber. “Nasi Lemak is a dish I grew up with, so bringing it to our guests is especially meaningful to me,” Lo said. “From there, we wanted to keep exploring – there’s so much to pull from across Asia, and we’re always

looking for new flavors, dishes and techniques that give our guests a reason to come back and see what we’re cooking up next while maintaining the bold, approachable spirit that defines Hawkers.” The rest of the lineup includes: • Bò Tái Chanh: Thinly sliced, seared steak with barrel-aged fish sauce and fresh greens. • Lamb Rendang: Slowbraised, spiced lamb with pickled vegetables and toasted coconut. • Spiced Lamb Udon: Udon noodles tossed with lamb, chili crisp, sesame and fresh herbs. • Pho Two, Please: A cocktail

for two made with Roku gin, RumHaven, pho simple, passion fruit and fresh herbs. Fish sauce adds a savory note. • Put a Wing on It: Blends Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon, Grand Marnier and gochujang hot honey. It is garnished with a crispy Korean Twice Fried Wing. • Coco Kopi: Iced Vietnamese coffee with coconut miso, milk and black sesame whipped cream. • Orange Sunburst: Fanta Creamsicle, popping boba and whipped cream. On the web: eathawkers.com

FOOD BRIEFS

More than 80 events planned for Charlotte Craft Beer Week

Wegmans opens Ballantyne store CHARLOTTE – Wegmans has opened its first Charlotte-area grocery store at 11550 North Community House Road. The 110,000-square-foot store will employ 450 people under Store Manager Patrick McGuinness. It is the company’s 115th location. The Ballantyne store offers prepared foods, including sushi, pizza, wings, soups, salads, sandwiches and Asian-inspired dishes. Executive Chef Rich Lawson will oversee the culinary staff. Other departments feature fresh seafood, produce, specialty cheeses and organic products. Customers will also have access to a self-service coffee station. Wegmans offers online grocery ordering for curbside pickup and home delivery, along with digital coupons and shopping lists through its mobile app. The Ballantyne team has contributed more than $30,000 to local organizations through donations and sponsorships. On the web: wegmans.com

Culinary Director John Masterson describes the Deli Stackhouse as a hearty burger with classic deli flavors. “The pastrami and Swiss give you that familiar foundation, while the sauerkraut, Russian dressing and deli mustard bring the punch that makes the whole thing work,” Masterson said. Photo courtesy of Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar

Bojangles celebrates Halloween CHARLOTTE – Bojangles is bringing back its Boojangles Halloween promotion with themed restaurant decorations, special packaging and a new meal option called the Bite Box. The Bite Box includes a choice of six, nine or 12 Bo Bites chicken tender pieces, a buttermilk biscuit, a side, a beverage and dipping sauce. The boxes feature three collectible designs that can be stacked to form a haunted house. Bojangles is decorating select restaurants in Charlotte; Plano, Texas; and Conway, South Carolina. The promotion includes a partnership with Carolina Panthers wide receiver Xavier Legette. On the web: bojangles.com

Clean Juice has added Apple Cider Juice and Caramel Apple Smoothie to its menu. Photo courtesy of Clean Juice

Teriyaki Madness introduces chili crisp noodle bowl DENVER – Teriyaki Madness has introduced the Chili Crisp Miso Chicken Yakisoba Bowl as a limited-time menu offering through the holiday season. The bowl combines chicken teriyaki, broccoli, edamame and yakisoba noodles tossed in a chili crisp miso sauce. It is available in junior, regular and large sizes. Culinary Director Nate Weir said the company is experimenting with more complex flavors in response to customer interest. On the web: teriyakimadness.com

Clean Juice taps into apple flavor CHARLOTTE – Clean Juice has introduced two limited-time drinks to its Apple Harvest menu. The seasonal offerings include Apple Cider Juice, made with apple, lemon and pumpkin spice, and a Caramel Apple Smoothie featuring apple, banana, almond milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, vanilla, maple, dates and a caramel drizzle made from dates. Both drinks are available at participating Clean Juice locations nationwide through Nov. 10. On the web: cleanjuice.com

Jason’s Deli celebrating 50 years CHARLOTTE – Jason’s Deli has brought back several seasonal menu items and launched a sweepstakes celebrating its 50th anniversary. The fall menu includes the Harvest Turkey Sandwich, featuring smoked turkey, field greens, red onions, Muenster cheese and mayonnaise on a cranberry sweet potato ciabatta bun. Returning soups include Beef Stew, made with pot roast and vegetables, and Southwest Chicken Chili, featuring chicken, kidney beans, green chiles and jalapeños. Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake, made with pumpkin, cinnamon and cloves, is available by the slice or as a whole cake. Jason’s Deli is celebrating its anniversary with the Deli-Bration Through the Decades

CHARLOTTE – Charlotte Craft Beer Week returns Oct. 16 with 10 days of events that showcase the Queen City’s craft beer community. Charlotte welcomes more than 33 million visitors each year, and 40% cite craft beer as a key reason for their trip, according to the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority. Nearly 60 participating breweries, restaurants, taprooms, bottle shops and distilleries across the region will host more than 80 events, special offerings and experiences. Guests can explore Charlotte’s craft beer scene, discover new flavors and support local brewers. This year’s celebration features nine flagship events, ranging from neighborhood bar crawls to a free beer competition. Other experiences include comedy shows, open mic nights, beer pairings and exclusive beer releases. Flagship events: • Oct. 16: NoDa Neighborhood Bar Crawl, multiple locations • Oct. 17: Belmont/North End/Optimist Hall Neighborhood Crawl, multiple

locations • Oct. 18: Plaza Midwood Boozy Brunch Crawl, multiple locations • Oct. 20: Charlotte Craft Beer Showcase, Frenchy’s Sip & Shop • Oct. 21: Cosmic Ballet Returns: A Toast to Dan Wade, Birdsong Brewing Co. • Oct. 22: Charlotte Craft Brew Tales, Carolina Beer Temple • Oct. 23: Pints & Punchlines Comedy Night, Free Range Brewing • Oct. 24: LoSo Brewery Crawl, multiple locations • Oct. 24: South End Night Brewery Crawl, multiple locations Sign up for the free Charlotte Craft Beer Passport at charlottecraftbeerweek. com. The mobile guide lets visitors check in at participating breweries and events, earn points and redeem prizes such as a limited-edition Charlotte-branded longsleeve shirt. No app download is required. Learn more about brewery adventures year-round with Charlotte Brewery Pass at charlottesgotalot.com/experiences.

C L AS S I F I E D S

Bad Daddy’s drops new burger CHARLOTTE – Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar has introduced the Deli Stackhouse as its October burger of the month. The limited-time burger combines a smashed beef patty with melted Swiss cheese, hot pastrami, sauerkraut, Russian dressing and deli mustard on a pressed brioche bun. The Deli Stackhouse is part of the restaurant chain’s Big Bad Monthly Drop series, which features a different specialty burger each month. Bad Daddy’s is also offering a $6 tall Schilling Moon Berries Cider at its North Carolina locations in recognition of National Cider Month. The Deli Stackhouse is available at participating locations through Oct. 31. On the web: baddaddysburgerbar.com

Traditionally eaten by hand, Nasi Lemak is the kind of dish where every bite can be a little different. Photo courtesy of Hawkers Asian Street Food

VP’s – Finance and Operations / Charlotte, NC: Responsible for leading the Finance, Legal & Ops depts of the company & providing business insights to help mngmnt w/ the overall finance strategy of company. Manage Finzly Series B funding process including attending daily call w/ investors, research on industry tread, financial forecasting, & prep of pitch deck presentation. Requires 5% domestic travel to meet investors. Send res to: Finzly, Inc. at Careers@finzly.com

Bojangles is serving Cinnamon Toast Crunch Iced Coffee and Donut Bites. Photo courtesy of Bojangles

Sweepstakes through Oct. 31. Rewards members can enter daily for chances to win prizes. On the web: jasonsdeli.com

Account Coordinator (Charlotte, NC)- Under supervision, manage/provide customer services to accounts as well as represent client needs and goals within the organization., be responsible for all client communications, conflict resolution and compliance on client deliverables and ensuring profitability expectations are met & ensure that all processes and procedures are completed, quality standards are met, and projects meet the company’s standard approved margins. Salary $44,762 per year. Req. Bachelor’s deg. (or foreign equi. degree) in Operation, Business, Finance, Human resources or related with knowledge of operation, quality control, business analysis. Apply PNK Connections LLC, 2101 Sardis Road N, Suite 120, Charlotte, NC 28227.

Development to host bakery crawl CHARLOTTE – Visitors can explore three bakeries within the Oakhurst Commons development during the Oakhurst Commons Bakery Crawl from 5 to 7 p.m. Oct. 21. Verdant Bread, operated by Jaymin McAffrey and Tanner Fink, specializes in naturally leavened breads and pastries made with freshly milled flour from North Carolina producers. Its offerings include sourdough loaves, baguettes and whole wheat breads. Thoughtful Baking Co., owned by chef Mary Jayne Wilson, features seasonal baked goods and comfort foods made with ingredients sourced from Carolina farms and producers. The Accidental Baker, founded by Matt Cabana, specializes in gluten-free baked goods prepared in a dedicated gluten-free kitchen. “When we opened here, one of the things I was most excited about was being surrounded by people who care so deeply about making good food,” Wilson said. “What I love is that we’re all bakers, but we’re doing completely different things.”

Bojangles adds iced coffee, bites CHARLOTTE – Bojangles has introduced two new menu items and brought back a popular breakfast sandwich for the fall season. The restaurant chain has added Cinnamon Toast Crunch Iced Coffee and Donut Bites to its menu. The iced coffee combines medium-roast cold brew with sweet cream and Cinnamon Toast Crunch syrup. Donut Bites are made from buttermilk biscuit dough, fried, coated in sugar and served with salted caramel dipping sauce. They are available in six-piece and 12-piece orders. Bojangles has also brought back its Pork Chop Griller, featuring a marinated, seared pork chop served on a buttermilk biscuit. The sandwich is available throughout the day. All three items are available at participating locations for a limited time. On the web: bojangles.com

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The Weekly • Oct. 16, 2026 • Page 3B

Page 4B • The Weekly • Oct. 16, 2026

NASCAR Hall of Fame launches Kyle Busch exhibit CHARLOTTE – The NASCAR Hall of Fame is honoring late driver Kyle Busch with a new exhibit celebrating his 25-year career and impact on the sport. The exhibit, “Kyle Busch: Honoring A Legacy,” highlights Busch’s achievements, including two NASCAR Cup Series championships and a record-setting 234 victories across NASCAR’s three national series. Known for his competitive spirit and determination behind the wheel, Busch’s career includes 63 Cup Series victories, a record 102 O’Reilly Auto Parts Series wins and 69 Craftsman Truck Series victories. “The NASCAR Hall of Fame’s mission includes serving as the recognized home for honoring NASCAR’s legends, history and family-oriented traditions,” Executive Director Winston Kelley said. “Kyle Busch’s remarkable career spans each of those areas and we are honored to work with Samantha and her family to highlight Kyle’s extraordinary contributions to NASCAR’s history.” On display is Busch’s No. 18 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota Camry, the car he drove to his first NASCAR Cup Series championship in 2015, along with videos and images highlighting his career and his influence beyond racing. The exhibit also recognizes Busch’s role as a mentor and team owner through Kyle Busch Motorsports, where he helped develop and launch the careers of numerous rising NASCAR stars.

Located in Uptown Charlotte, the NASCAR Hall of Fame is an interactive entertainment attraction honoring the history and heritage of NASCAR. Photo courtesy of the NASCAR Hall of Fame

Rooster’s Wood-Fired Kitchen expanding to Blowing Rock CHARLOTTE – Noble Food & Pursuits plans to open a Rooster’s Wood-Fired Kitchen at the new Green Park Inn in Blowing Rock in summer 2027. The project is being developed on the site of a hotel that first welcomed guests in 1891. The redevelopment plan calls for a 40-room luxury hotel, cottages, museum and event spaces. Rooster’s Wood-Fired Kitchen specializes in Southern ingredients prepared with European culinary techniques. The restaurant’s philosophy is inspired by the seasons, with an emphasis on wood-fired cooking and quality ingredients. “We have been searching for a location in the High Country for some time,” said Jim Noble, owner

and founder of Noble Food & Pursuits. “We believe that Blowing Rock is the best place, and the Green Park Inn could not be a better home for our next Rooster’s.” Noble Food & Pursuits operates Rooster’s Wood-Fired Kitchen locations in SouthPark, Uptown and Ballantyne in Charlotte, as well as Winston-Salem. A fifth location in Davidson is coming soon. The Rooster’s concept dates to 1992, when Noble opened the original restaurant in WinstonSalem. The first Charlotte location opened in SouthPark in 2006, followed by the Uptown location in 2012 and Ballantyne in 2024. The Ballantyne location marked the first new Rooster’s opening in more than a decade.

Charlotte Master Chorale presents ‘A Vision Unfolding’ CHARLOTTE – The Charlotte Master Chorale will present Kyle Pederson’s “A Vision Unfolding” on Nov. 21 at Myers Park Presbyterian Church. The performance will feature the chorale’s main chorus under the direction of Artistic Director Kenney Potter, with a special appearance by the Young Singers of Charlotte, conducted by Aj Calpo. “A Vision Unfolding” combines choral music, spoken word and poetry to explore themes of connection, justice, empathy and belonging. Pederson created the five-movement work in collaboration with poet, spoken-word artist and singer-songwriter Shanelle Gabriel, drawing on texts by Gabriel, Walt Whitman, Langston Hughes, Robert Bode and Pederson himself. The work grew from a 2021 commission involving seven choirs from around the country. Pederson and Gabriel wanted to invite singers and audiences to imagine how equality, freedom, justice and inclusion might shape community life. For Potter, those themes reflect the role choral music can play in bringing people together. “’A Vision Unfolding’ asks us to imagine not just

the community we have, but the community we want to create,” Potter said. “That feels especially meaningful as we welcome a new generation of singers into the master chorale family. Music gives us a way to listen to one another, to encounter perspectives beyond our own, and to imagine what becomes possible when we recognize how connected we really are.” The performance will mark the public debut of the Young Singers of Charlotte, a new youth ensemble directed by Aj Calpo. Members will present their own set of music that builds on the themes of “A Vision Unfolding.” “Coming together as one community lies in how we approach each other,” Calpo said. “The purpose of this choir is not to show off what you know as an individual but to pool our combined skills, knowledge and talents and share that artistic product with each other and then with the audience. And, let me tell you, these young people, with their voices, their lived experiences, and their unceasing hope and idealism, have a great deal to share with the adults in the world.”

ARTS BRIEFS must be accompanied by an adult. The monthly Downtown Jazz Jam provides opportunities for musicians to perform together. Parking is free. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Contact Tim Hartis at 803-230-1967 or timhartis@live.com for details.

Historic Rosedale to dedicate memorial garden CHARLOTTE – Historic Rosedale will dedicate its African American Legacy Memorial Garden from 1 to 3 p.m. Nov. 7 on its 9-acre grounds. The garden honors enslaved people who were forced to work at Rosedale and their descendants who lived and worked at the property after emancipation. The dedication will feature an invocation, music, an explanation of the garden’s symbolism and refreshments. Lawana Holland-Moore, of the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund, will serve as guest speaker. The memorial garden project began in 2023. Its design incorporates Kongo and Yoruba symbolism to represent phases of human life. Features include interpretive signs, plantings and objects commemorating the people who lived and worked at Rosedale. The event is free and open to the public. Advance registration is encouraged. On the web: historicrosedale.org

Duke basketball author to hold Charlotte book signing CHARLOTTE – Sports journalist Steve Wiseman will sign copies of his new book, “Duke Men’s Basketball: An Illustrated Timeline,” from noon to 5 p.m. Oct. 24 at Triple C Brewing Company, 2900 Griffith St. Published by Reedy Press, the 176-page hardcover chronicles Duke University’s men’s basketball program from its beginnings at Trinity College in 1906 through the coaching eras of Eddie Cameron, Vic Bubas, Mike Krzyzewski and Jon Scheyer. The book explores the program’s rivalry with North Carolina, the construction of Cameron Indoor Stadium, five national championships under Krzyzewski and the contributions of players including Dick Groat, Art Heyman, Jeff Mullins and Cooper Flagg.

Harlem Globetrotters take on Generals in Charlotte CHARLOTTE – The Harlem Globetrotters will bring their Rivalry Tour to Bojangles Coliseum on March 20, 2027, featuring new opponents, challenges and opportunities for audience participation. The tour celebrates the team’s 100-year history and its longstanding rivalry with the Washington Generals. A free pregame party will be available to ticket holders. Additional premium experiences include early arena access, oncourt activities before the game and courtside bench seating. The Globetrotters and their opponents will also debut new uniforms and merchandise. A limited-edition Spalding basketball will commemorate the 75-year rivalry between the Globetrotters and Washington Generals. On the web: harlemglobetrotters.com

Deanna Witte-Walker, executive director of Historic Rosedale, invites the public to the dedication of the Memorial Garden, which she described as an important milestone for the landmark. Photo courtesy of Historic Rosedale Wiseman has covered Duke athletics since 2010 for the Durham Herald-Sun and The News & Observer.

the show by country singer Riley Green.

Residents impress on ‘The Voice’

ROCK HILL – The Downtown Jazz Jam will celebrate its third anniversary from 6 to 8 p.m. Nov. 1 at Slow Play Brewing, 274 Columbia Ave. South Carolina Jazz Ambassador Mark Rapp and his band will lead a jazz workshop, concert and jam session. Rapp, a Winthrop University alumnus, directs the ColaJazz Foundation, a Columbia nonprofit that promotes jazz through education and performances. The event is free and open to musicians of all ages and skill levels, including students. The public is invited to attend the performances. Attendees younger than 21

CHARLOTTE – Two Charlotte-area singers made great first impressions during blind auditions of “The Voice.” Brayden Howell, 19, of Marshville, sang “Friends in Low Places” by Garth Brooks. He has drawn inspiration from his recovery from brain surgery and hometown legend Randy Travis. Brendan Coulter, 27, of Charlotte, sang “Liar” by Jelly Roll. Coulter performs with his wife, Anna, in the acoustic duo, Honey I Duo. They’ve booked gigs at Camp North End and Bin 110 in Cornelius. Coulter and Howell are being mentored on

Downtown Jazz Jam celebrates its third anniversary

Quick Hits • The NC Music Hall of Fame has inducted its 2026 class, which includes Arrogance (rock), Billy Strayhorn (jazz), MC Sha-Rock (hip-hop), Gregory “Sugar Bear” Elliott (gogo) and Barry Poss (bluegrass). Funk legend George Clinton received the 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award. • Ari Matti fans can catch the comedian’s Here to Stay Tour on April 3 at Carolina Theatre. • Comedian Gianmarco Soresi has added a second show on Dec. 12 at Carolina Theatre as part of The Misery Loves Tour.

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